textproduct: Rapid City

KEY MESSAGES

- Storms will develop over the area this afternoon, some storms may be strong to severe and be capable of 70+ mph gusts and large hail.

- More chances for afternoon storms on Wednesday, mainly across western SD.

- Trending warmer to end the week into next weekend.

DISCUSSION

(This Evening Through Tuesday) Issued at 1242 PM MDT Tue Aug 18 2026

Shortwave will push through region today and bring another round of storms to the CWA this afternoon. Modestly unstable airmass of 1500- 2000 J/kg MUCAPE will develop over western SD by this afternoon and evening. The instability combined with 40-50kt bulk shear will support organized convection and potential severe weather. Main hazards will be strong wind gusts (some gusts could exceed 70 mph) and large hail. There is still uncertainty as to the timing and coverage of convection this afternoon, though right now it looks like the most likely area for severe storms stretches from northeastern WY into portions of western and south central SD.

Wednesday is looking drier as rising heights courtesy of the building ridge to our west will limit convection. We could still see some isolated storms towards the eastern third of our CWA where 1000- 1500 J/kg MUCAPE will develop by the afternoon.

The upper level pattern shifts after Wednesday as aforementioned ridge continues to build over the western US and overspreads the region. Our CWA will sit on the northeastern periphery of the ridge, meaning we'll see warmer temps and continued chances for storms through the end of the week.

AVIATION

(For the 00Z TAFS Through 00Z Wednesday Evening) Issued At 527 PM MDT Tue Aug 18 2026

Isolated/scattered thunderstorms with gusty, erratic winds are expected this evening and may impact both TAF sites. Local MVFR/IFR conditions may occur with the stronger storms. Outside of storms, light winds and VFR conditions will prevail through the period.

UNR WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES

SD...None. WY...None.